The Roku Smart TV 2025 – 32‑Inch Select Series aims to deliver essential streaming features in a compact, budget-friendly package. With its 720p LED panel, Roku’s latest smart platform, and integrated voice control, this television targets consumers needing a reliable second-screen or bedroom TV without unnecessary frills. In the following sections, we’ll dive into its design, picture quality, smart capabilities, audio performance, gaming suitability, connectivity, energy efficiency, and overall value proposition.
Shop Roku Smart TV 2025 32‑Inch Select Series
Sleek, Compact Design Built for Everyday Use
The Roku 32″ Select Series features a slim LED panel framed by narrow bezels and a matte-black finish that blends well into any modern living area or bedroom setup. At just over 28″ wide, the set fits neatly onto small entertainment units or countertops while also being compatible with standard VESA wall mounts (100 × 100 mm) . Included in the package are a simplistic stand, power cable, and Roku Voice Remote with mic, volume controls, and TV power shortcut buttons . Overall, the design is unpretentious but thoughtfully executed for a device in its price bracket.
Picture Quality: 720p Clarity with Limitations
The 32″ panel delivers native 720p HD resolution. While that may sound modest compared to today’s 4K standard, it remains suitable for the screen’s size and typical viewing distance in smaller rooms. According to RTINGS.com, the smaller Select Series models use 720p, and the TV achieves decent sharpness and brightness for everyday content .
Brightness performance in SDR is sufficient for moderately lit rooms, but it struggles under direct glare—common in budget displays lacking advanced anti-reflective coatings . Black levels are average, frequently appearing more grayish in dark scenes, owing to the set’s lack of local dimming . Meanwhile, colors tend to be accurate but somewhat muted—ideal for casual TV viewing but not for cinematic precision .
HDR performance is particularly limited. While the Roku Select Series supports HDR10+ in larger models, the 32″ variant lacks the peak brightness needed to deliver impactful high dynamic range visuals . Ultimately, this screen prioritizes straightforward, functional viewing rather than festival-level brilliance.
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Roku OS 14.1: Simple, Smart, and Streamlined
At the heart of this TV is Roku OS, currently at version 14.1 after a January 2025 update . Roku’s interface is widely praised for its ease of use, intuitive navigation, and fast app launches. With more than 26,000 channels available—including 500+ free, ad-supported ones—the selection offers both entertainment and customization .
Voice control is a core feature. The included Roku Voice Remote enables voice searches, content navigation, and quick access to music, weather, news, and streaming services. Users can also integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, and Apple’s AirPlay for casting . Thanks to automatic updates, the TV acquires new features and channel additions over time . No external streaming devices are needed—this Roku TV offers a complete smart experience out of the box.
Shop Roku Smart TV 2025 32‑Inch Select Series
Audio Capabilities and Headphone Features
For a compact TV, audio performance is solid. It includes Dolby Audio, auto-volume leveling, and night mode, which enhance dialogue clarity—especially at lower volume settings . While built-in speakers don’t rival external soundbars, they deliver clear sound suitable for bedroom viewing or casual use.
Bluetooth headphone mode is a standout feature, allowing viewers to enjoy late-night sessions without disturbing others . The inclusion of HDMI ARC support further enables easy integration with external audio systems when better sound quality is desired.
Everyday Gaming and Motion Handling
With a standard 60 Hz refresh rate, the Roku 32″ handles games and fast-motion content smoothly enough. RTINGS acknowledges motion isn’t perfect—pixel response time is a bit sluggish, causing some blur . The TV does not offer VRR or HDMI 2.1, limiting its appeal to casual gamers . However, input lag is reasonably low, allowing for playable sessions on consoles like Nintendo Switch, PS4, or Xbox One. Those owning newer consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X focused on competitive gaming may find the limitations more noticeable, but for everyday use, it’s fine.
Shop Roku Smart TV 2025 32‑Inch Select Series
Connectivity Options for All Your Devices
The Roku Select Series packs practical connectivity: multiple HDMI ports (including at least one with ARC), USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet (on some models) . The TV also supports Apple AirPlay for seamless casting from iPhones, iPads, or Macs . This core hardware setup covers most streaming, gaming, and playback needs. NFC or USB-C features are understandably absent at this price point, as are advanced gaming ports like HDMI 2.1, but that’s a fair tradeoff for affordability.
Energy Efficiency and Practicality
Budget TVs like this are generally energy-efficient, thanks to modest brightness and smaller screens. The Roku Select Series ships with Eco-mode features, and its compact size helps minimize power consumption. Automatic software updates over Wi-Fi ensure ongoing enhancements and security without user intervention, maintaining a fresh experience over time.
Shop Roku Smart TV 2025 32‑Inch Select Series
Market Context and Competitors
Within the entry-level TV landscape, the Roku 32″ Select Series stands out. Publications such as OldSchoolReview list it among the best 32-inch TVs for 2025 . While competing brands (like Onn., Insignia, and TCL) offer similar features and pricing, Roku’s full ecosystem—its software, voice features, and platform maturity—often gives it the edge .
RTINGS rates the Select Series lower than Roku’s own Plus and Pro models, which include 4K, QLED, local dimming, and gaming-centric enhancements . But within the sub-$200 segment, the 32″ Select model holds its own as a reliable smart TV.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Intuitive Roku OS with fast streaming and vast channel library | Native 720p resolution limits detail and sharpness |
| Voice remote with Bluetooth headphone mode and platform-wide updates | Color volume is muted; HDR impact is minimal |
| Compact size, ideal for bedrooms, kitchens, dorms | No HDMI 2.1, VRR, local dimming, or advanced gaming features |
| Dolby Audio, ARC, AirPlay, multi-assistant voice control | Reflection handling is basic; not ideal for bright rooms |
| Regular updates via Roku OS 14.1 | Screen brightness underperforms in direct sunlight |
Final Verdict
The Roku Smart TV 2025 – 32″ Select Series is an excellent choice for anyone needing an affordable, easy-to-use smart TV. With robust streaming capabilities, intuitive voice control, and wireless headphone support, it delivers strong everyday performance. Picture quality is solid for casual use in small to medium rooms, though it isn’t meant to impress cinephiles or gamers seeking ultra-sharp visuals or high refresh rates.
For approximately $130–$180, you receive a reliable all-in-one entertainment portal that will serve reliably in bedrooms, kitchens, guest rooms, and dorms. If you eventually want 4K, HDR, or advanced gaming, you can always upgrade to Roku’s Plus or Pro Series within the same ecosystem—making the Select Series an ideal entry point.
Shop Roku Smart TV 2025 32‑Inch Select Series
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this TV smart out of the box?
Yes. The Roku OS is built in—no additional streaming device needed . - Can it be used with Alexa or Google Assistant?
Yes. The Roku Voice Remote supports multiple assistants, and voice integration works via connected devices or the Roku App . - Can I connect external speakers?
Absolutely. Use HDMI ARC, optical out, or Bluetooth to pair with soundbars or headphones. - Does it support Netflix and other apps?
Yes—over 26,000 channels are available via the Roku Channel Store, including all major streaming platforms . - How does it perform in bright rooms?
Performance is adequate in moderate lighting, but bright glare can diminish contrast on this budget display . - Is it good for gaming?
Casual gaming works fine thanks to decent input lag at 60 Hz, but it lacks features like VRR or higher refresh rates.
